São Paulo eye difficult Lucca negotiation

São Paulo are reported to have encountered problems in their pursuit of Criciúma midfielder Lucca ahead of the 2013 season, but may have an ace up their sleeve.

Lucca, 22, has shot to prominence this season with 11 goals in Série B and, despite suffering knee ligament damage that will keep him out until May, has been a target for many of Brazil's top sides in recent months.

It is believed São Paulo's initial approach for the playmaker, which involved a player exchange deal, was bettered by another top-flight side who offered a wider selection of players.

However, with the DIS group enjoying close ties with São Paulo and controlling a percentage of Lucca's economic rights, it is thought they could swing the deal in the club's favour.

Criciúma are believed to value the player at around R$7 million (£2.2 million) and, although they publically insist he will remain at the club for their Série A campaign next season, are seeking to cash in on the player in order to strengthen across their squad.